In this episode, Dr. Lakelyn discusses a type of benefit that many caregivers may be unaware of—Veterans Assistance (VA) benefits. She is joined by expert Greg Bean to explore VA programs and share tips for successfully accessing these valuable resources. Episode highlights include: - Overview of VA caregiver programs and benefits. - How to get started and who to contact. - Tips for a successful application process. Helpful links from the episode: - www.va.gov  - Caregiver Chats Episode 23: Caregiving & Financials  - Funding Solutions Guide: https://www.homeinstead.com/contentassets/e3cf4ce582a04572bd0a265d9e6c1fce/hi_sp_funding_sollutions_guide_insides_digital.pdf  To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

In this second episode of a two-part series on Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Dr. Lakelyn sits down with Melissa Fischer, a long-distance caregiver and Ambassador for The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). Melissa opens up about her experience caring for her father, who was diagnosed with Behavioral Variant FTD (BvFTD), and shares valuable insights and lessons she’s gained through her caregiving journey.  Episode highlights include: -Overview of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and the various types -Common symptoms of Behavioral Variant (Bv FTD) -The diagnosis journey and challenges -Tips for supporting someone living with FTD Helpful links from the episode: - The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration: www.theaftd.org  - AFTD’s  HelpLine 1-866-507-7222 -AFTD’s Comstock Grants: www.theaftd.org/comstock-grants  -Remember Me FTD Podcast: www.remembermeftd.com To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

This episode is part one of a two-part series about Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).  Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Jerry Horn, a  family care partner and Ambassador of The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). The two discuss Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), one form of FTD that impacted Jerry’s wife and he shares the lessons he has learned as a caregiver.  Episode highlights include: -Overview of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and the various types -Common symptoms of Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) -The diagnosis journey and challenges -Tips for supporting someone living with FTD Helpful links from the episode: - The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration: www.theaftd.org  - AFTD’s  HelpLine 1-866-507-7222 -AFTD’s Comstock Grants: www.theaftd.org/comstock-grants  -Well Spouse Association: wellspouse.org (also see episode 5) -Remember Me FTD Podcast: www.remembermeftd.com To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

In this episode, Dr. Lakelyn and guest Lori La Bey, founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks, and co-founder of Dementia Map discuss the steps to take after an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Lori shares her caregiving journey, offers tips on discussing cognitive concerns with loved ones, and highlights key resources for those navigating dementia. Episode highlights include: -Overview of dementia, including common signs and symptoms. -Importance of early diagnosis for planning and treatment. -Tips for discussing cognitive concerns with loved ones. -Resources and support systems for individuals and families navigating dementia. Helpful links from the episode:-Alzheimer’s Speaks: alzheimersspeaks.com-Dementia Map: dementiamap.com- ADI World Alzhiemer’s Month: alzint.org- Alzheimer’s Association - alz.org- Alzheimer’s Foundation - alzfdn.org- Dementia Action Alliance - daanow.org-Dementia Mentors - dementiamentors.org-Memory Cafe Directory - memorycafedirectory.com To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Nancy Griffin and Katherine Lord of Glowing Older where they talk about how caregivers can plan ahead to protect their own well-being. Episode highlights include: - Burnout’s impact on caregivers - The importance of planning ahead - Tips for preserving well-being - Insights on the Glowing Older GetSetUp program Helpful links from the episode: - Glowing Older - www.glowingolder.com  To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Elder Rights Specialist Tasha Jones to talk about the latest scams and how caregivers can help their loved one safeguard against fraud. Episode highlights include: - What makes older adults more vulnerable to fraud. - Common scams and why they work. - Tips and resources to safeguard against scams. - How to report if a person falls victim to fraud or other forms of abuse. Helpful links from the episode: - Eldercare Locator (find your local Area Agency on Aging) - Federal Trade Commission - Internet Crime Complaint Center (for online scams) - National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) - AARP podcast “The Perfect Scam”  To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Parkinson’s advocates George Ackerman and Pat Donahoo, who will share their respective caregiving journeys and how they have supported their loved ones throughout the process. Episode highlights include: - Early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease - Challenges of day-to-day care - The benefits of movement and staying active - Helpful resources specific to Parkinson’s caregivers Helpful links from the episode: - www.TogetherForSharon.com - davisphinneyfoundation.org  - Parkinson's Place Las Vegas - parkinsonsplacelv.org - Parkinson’s Foundation - Micheal J. Fox Foundation - Parkinson’s Webinar To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by caregiving expert Michele Manger to talk about tips and strategies for caregivers to help them overcome resistance to care. Episode highlights include: - Why older adults are resistant to care and support - Strategies for how to approach the conversation - Practical tips for overcoming resistance to care Helpful links from the episode: - Inspired Caring Podcast - www.michelemagner.com  To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc Instagram: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by family caregiver and dementia advocate Loretta Veney, to share ideas for meaningful activities for dementia caregivers. Episode highlights include: - Why meaningful engagement is important - Considerations for tailoring activities to the individual - Ideas for activities that are affordable and fun Helpful links from the episode: -lorettaveney.com  -dabblesack.com  - OuiSi playing cards - shop.ouisi.co  -Zinnia - Therapeutic TV -Mirador Magazine -Nana’s Books -Music with Alexis To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by dementia expert and advocate Carrie Aalberts, to talk about the top 10 resources that all dementia family caregivers should know. Connect with Carrie Aalberts: - ⁠Dementia Darling⁠ - Instagram: ⁠@dementiadarling⁠  Episode highlights include the top 10 resources: 1 - Alzheimer's Association 2 - Support groups and online support communities 3 - Other dementia specific websites - Lewy Body Dementia Association - Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration - Lorenzo’s House 4 - Respite care  - Home Instead - National Adult Day Service Association - Area Agencies on Aging  5 - Meaningful engagement activities  - Zinnia - Therapeutic TV - Mirador Magazine - Nana’s Books - Music with Alexis 6 - Hilarity for Charity - HFC 7 - Care Navigator Services - Aging Life Care Association  - Steadii 8 - Dementia Friendly America & Dementia Friends 9 - National Council of Dementia Minds & Dementia Action Alliance  10 - YouTube Channels - Home Insted’s ALZ DIY video series -  Teepa Snow  - Dementia Careblazers To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by author and caregiving expert Dr. Aaron Blight, to talk about the benefits of reflecting on your caregiving mindset and tools to help you do so. Episode highlights include: - Understanding how the caregiving journey evolves over time - Recognizing important inflection points in your caregiving - Learning a simple exercise to chart your caregiving journey - Adapting your caregiver mindset over time  Helpful links from this episode: - Caregiving Kinetics To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

With severe weather hitting parts of the country, Dr. Lakelyn interviews Emergency Response Specialist Jen Masotja-Wright on important considerations for caregivers on staying safe. Listen in to learn more! Episode highlights include: - How to prepare for severe weather - What to include in an emergency kit - Discussing safety plans with your aging loved one - Important resources for safety Helpful links from this episode: - FEMA Caregiver Preparedness Guide - FEMA app - Red Cross  - Article: Emergency Preparedness Checklist To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by author and aging expert Maddy Dychtwald, to talk about how caregivers can take ownership of our own aging journey. They explore how embracing aging can help overcome societal biases and prioritize self-care.  Episode highlights include: - Why caregivers should care about their own aging journey. - Dispel myths and biases about aging. - Uncover how a person can take charge of their aging journey. - Learn tips for health and wellness that help us age gracefully. Helpful links from this episode: - Maddy’s website - Maddy’s new book: Ageless Aging To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn discusses the intersection of family caregiving for aging loved ones and finances. Episode highlights include: - The costs of caregiving - Impacts of the role on the caregiver’s finances - Options to pay for long term care - Tips for planning for caregivers’ financial well-being Helpful links from this episode: - AARP Caregiving Out-of-Pocket Cost Study - Genworth Cost of Care Report - Funding Solutions Guide - Long Term Care Insurance Guide - Area Agency on Aging  - National Alliance for Caregiving - Wiser Women - Financial Caregiving Hub To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn explores the unique role that music plays in providing comfort, connection, and joy to both caregivers and their loved ones. She’s joined by music therapist Tara Jenkins who shares about the therapeutic qualities of music, expert insights, and practical tips on how to integrate music into caregiving routines.  Episode highlights include: - An overview of the therapeutic qualities of music - Insights on when to use music and when not to - Practical tips on using music in day-to-day care - How to use music for caregivers as self-care  Helpful links from this episode: - Harmony in Dementia (Tara Jenkins’ website) To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn steps into the important topic of fall prevention. Many older adults worry about taking a spill, and family caregivers stress over what could happen if their loved ones fall. She is joined by fellow gerontologist April Ibarra to talk about tips for being proactive and preventing falls. Episode highlights include: - Importance of fall prevention - Potential risk factors for falls - Tips to proactively prevent falls - Conversation starters to discuss the topic  Helpful links from this episode: -Home Safety Checklist To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn delves into a topic that affects millions of families worldwide: hearing loss in aging adults. As caregivers, it's crucial to understand the prevalence, challenges, and resources available to support our loved ones who may be experiencing this issue. Episode highlights include: - Signs of hearing loss - Challenges of untreated hearing loss - Discussion starters - Tips for caregivers  Helpful links from this episode: - Hearing Loss Association of America - Is Hearing Loss the Culprit? Video - Book: Hearing and Beyond - National Hearing Test (Phone Test)   - Article: Learn the Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn answers caregiving questions from you - our listeners! These questions focus on mental health, dementia care tips and challenging emotions that come with caregiving. You can submit your questions to Dr. Lakelyn to be answered in a future episode. Email her at  caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Episode highlights include: - Challenges of caregiving for someone with mental health issues - Dementia care tips for handling agitation and aggression - Managing the emotions of caregiving   Helpful links from this episode: - Circle of Care Guidebook  - National Association on Mental Illness  - Agitation and Aggression Tips Video To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn chats about driving safety for older adults and how families can navigate this challenging topic. Tune in for conversation starters, tips and resources that can help families find safe solutions. Episode highlights include: - Common conditions and age related changes that can affect driving - Potential signs that an older adult may be an unsafe driver - Conversation starters and how to address driving  - Tips to reduce the impact of a transition from driving   Helpful links from this episode: - Car Fit - car-fit.org  - Clearinghouse for Older Road User Safety: roadsafeseniors.org - NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Older Driver page resources - National Aging and Disability Transportation Center - Occupational Therapy Association’s Older Driver Resource Center - The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialist - Assessment: Driving Safely while Aging Gracefully - NHTSA - License Renewal Procedures by State - AARP Smart Driver Courses  - Article: Retiring from Driving  To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

Dr. Lakelyn dives deep into one type of service - home care- that can help support older adults and their caregiver. She's joined by Debbie Gross, a Home Instead franchise owner, who shares what families can expect when they look into home care services. Episode highlights include: - An overview of home care services - Scenarios and signs that someone might need home care - The benefits of home care for caregivers  - What the process is like to start home care - Important questions to ask home care providers   Helpful links from this episode: - Guide:  Home Care Solutions - Article: Signs That Your Aging Parent Might Need Help - Article: Difficult Aging Conversations: What to do if You See the Signs To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving  newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com. Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @homeinsteadinc YouTube: @homeinsteadinc